Barcelona is already thinking about the future, and the 2026-2027 season is shaping up to be the start of a new offensive cycle. Robert Lewandowski remains important, but the club knows that sooner or later it will need a successor, and that name has already started to gain momentum.
A forward with potential
Julián Álvarez combines youth, technique, and goal-scoring ability. He is not just a forward who puts up numbers, but a complete player, capable of creating play and linking up with his teammates. His style fits with Barça, which is looking to recover its offensive identity: high pressing, constant movement, and precise finishing.
Moreover, Julián Álvarez is already familiar with the demands of competing at the highest level, both with clubs and the Argentine national team. His international experience gives him an advantage over other young talents. At Can Barça, they believe that his arrival would provide an immediate boost in quality, without the need for a long adaptation period.
The complicated situation at Atlético
The 2025-2026 season could be Julián Álvarez's last at Atlético de Madrid. Despite an outstanding first year in terms of numbers, the Argentine forward has not quite fit into Diego Simeone's structure. The main difficulty is tactical: Cholo is unsure whether to use him as the only "9" or in a two-striker system with Alexander Sørloth.
This lack of clarity has reduced his prominence and confidence, and the pressure of not having a defined role has caused wear and tear. The club is aware that keeping a player like Julián Álvarez requires continuity, offensive leadership, and a system that enhances his strengths. If this doesn't change, his departure seems increasingly likely.
Laporta and the blaugrana planning
At Camp Nou, Álvarez's name has been on the table for some time. Joan Laporta has asked the sporting management to closely monitor his contractual and personal situation. Although the club's finances currently limit operations, it is expected that by the summer of 2026 there will be more financial flexibility.
The fact that the Argentine could adjust his financial terms makes the operation an attractive opportunity. His arrival would allow Barça to start a new offensive cycle with a young forward, with potential and capable of taking on responsibilities from day one.
A promising future
The possible signing of Julián Álvarez excites both the board and the fans. It is not just about replacing Lewandowski, but about ensuring a forward who will grow with the team. His modern, dynamic, and versatile profile fits Barça's needs and the style they want to recover at Camp Nou.
If everything goes as planned, Álvarez could become the forward who leads the transition to a new era. A "9" who combines goal-scoring, movement, and vision. Neither Lewandowski nor Ferran Torres: the next great Barça forward could be Julián Álvarez, and the fans are already starting to dream of that future.